Apparatus and method for laminating separator strips and foil sheets for electrochemical cells, preferably for the manufacture of batteries.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lamination apparatus and method for laminating separator strips (NS) and foil sheets (201, 301). The apparatus comprises a lamination unit (1) having a lamination surface (10), a supply unit (20) including a feed direction control device (R2) positioned immediately upstream of the lamination unit (1), the feed direction control device (R2) being designed to define a reference feed direction (DRU), and a handling unit (130) configured to move the feed direction control device (R2) and / or the lamination surface (10), respectively, thereby maintaining a first distance (D1) between the feed direction control device (R2) and the lamination surface (10), measured according to the reference feed direction (DRU), between 0 and 30 mm.

Description

Technical Field

[0007]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for laminating a separator strip and a foil sheet, of a type formed by alternately laminating the separator strip and the foil sheet.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for laminating a separator strip and a foil sheet.

Background Art

[0003] The present invention finds a preferred application in the field of manufacturing electrochemical cells for the purpose of manufacturing pouch-type or rectangular batteries, but is not limited thereto. For its manufacture, a laminated structure is preferably used which comprises separator strips laminated alternately with foil sheets.

[0004] In particular, in the related art, in order to form a structure suitable for use in the manufacture of electrochemical cells for the purpose of manufacturing batteries, a plurality of laminated layers obtained by folding the separator strip itself and electrode foil sheets interposed between those layers are combined.

[0005] In an example of an apparatus and method for manufacturing a battery by alternately laminating a separator strip and a foil sheet, movement of a lamination unit is provided by a controlled pendulum movement using a servomotor and a speed reducer.

[0006] In this specification and the appended claims, specific terms and expressions are considered to have the meanings indicated in the following definitions, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0007] The term "separator strip" refers to any solid product supplied in the form of an elongated strip or ribbon within an industrial production line, i.e., an element whose longitudinal elongation is significantly greater than its transverse elongation. This separator strip may be formed from a single strip or ribbon of material, or by overlapping multiple strips to form a multilayer structure.

[0008] Furthermore, this separator strip has properties that allow for some bending as it moves along the corresponding production line.

[0009] Separator strips can be used, for example, by alternately stacking insulating layers to form a laminated or sandwich structure for the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0010] Furthermore, the term "separator strip" refers to a strip-shaped product that has properties that allow for a form of separation and / or isolation from other components located nearby.

[0011] This separation can be achieved by physical or chemical properties, depending on the intended use conditions.

[0012] An example of such separation characteristics is an electrically insulating polymer strip positioned in contact with the foil sheet of a conductive electrode.

[0013] This particular configuration is merely an example and not limiting.

[0014] Other embodiments may include polymer strips that are deformation-following so that the strips themselves can be folded and laminated.

[0015] According to some examples, these materials may be polyolefins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or copolymers derived therefrom.

[0016] In this context, the term "laminated" refers to an action aimed at forming a continuous structure that is suitable for separating or isolating other components interposed between different layers, by folding back the separator strip itself to form a structure containing multiple layers.

[0017] The term "laminated structure" refers to any structure formed by folding and laminating strips, ribbons, or more generally, strip-like articles themselves. Depending on the protrusions or overlaps, preferably overlapping layers in the vertical direction are created. This laminated or folded structure is intended to create at least partial separation of any products that may be interposed between each layer, and it is not necessary for the different layers of the strips employed to be in direct contact with each other.

[0018] Furthermore, in many cases, this layered structure is more precisely described as a "Z-shape," depending on the folded shape formed by the different layers.

[0019] As mentioned above, this layered structure can be applied not only to the field of electrochemical cells but also to other fields such as conductors and capacitors, where layered structures can be similarly used.

[0020] The term "work path" refers to a closed path moved by a handling device or similar moving element. The start and end points of that path substantially coincide.

[0021] The term “continuous” as used in relation to movement means that the action of the object is performed without interruption or cessation. In particular, the term “continuous” as used in relation to, but not limited to, the supply or movement of a strip means that the strip does not stop during its supply or movement.

[0022] Similarly, the term "continuous" refers to a product, such as a separator strip, that has no interruptions or clear separations within it and is presented as a single unit during the processing steps or use being considered.

[0023] Furthermore, as described above, the strips used in each enucleatable step of the industrial process in question are preferably continuous separator strips. Therefore, this technical solution includes a step of folding the continuous separator strip itself to form at least two overlapping layers of the laminated structure described above. This clarifies at least one process difference from techniques used when sequentially laminating individual layers or multiple pre-formed or cut separator layers (a concept that assumes easy release of a pre-constructed architecture and corresponds to the most restrictive meaning of the term "lamination").

[0024] The term "substantially constant" is used for a measurement or quantity, such as the angle of motion in the trajectory of an object, i.e., with respect to the angle formed as the object moves. In this case, the measurement or quantity means that it maintains a value over time that changes by preferably up to ±10%, preferably up to ±5%, and more preferably up to ±2%.

[0025] The term “direction” means an identifiable vector having direction and orientation, as described or shown herein and in the accompanying drawings. In other words, where the term “direction” is used herein, it means a direction with a defined orientation. In some cases, it may mean the direction, orientation, and norm or magnitude (or, less appropriately, scalar coefficients) of a free vector, and may be described more precisely and in detail. More specifically, “norm” herein is identified as the Euclidean distance between the start and end points of a distance vector and is defined as the square root of the sum of the squares of its components.

[0026] The term "substantially equal to 0 mm" means a minimized value where, due to mere dimensional constraints of the associated movement mechanism, this value can deviate from 0 mm by about a few millimeters.

[0027] The terms "upstream" or "downstream" mean an object or process step that occurs before or after, respectively, in accordance with a specific continuous flow. When these terms are used in relation to the "unwinding direction of the separator strip", with respect to the path following the advancing direction of the separator strip from the first supply element or discharge element (such as a roll, coil, etc.) to the lamination surface being laminated, upstream means the previous step and downstream means the subsequent step.

[0028] In this specification, the term "unwind" is synonymous with "unwinding".

[0029] Also, the term "foil sheet" can be replaced with "electrode" when the embodiments in the illustrated examples and cited examples are related to the use of an electrochemical cell.

[0030] The term "follows according to at least one component" means that when used in the case where B follows A, the movement of A coincides with B, that is, the movement vectors of B and A have the same components.

[0031] In this regard, the term "same angular orientation in all possible spatial arrangements" means that a specific arrangement of a device or object where a set of vectors with a particularly defined orientation in space can be correlated one by one does not change this alignment of the set of vectors regardless of the possible spatial arrangements. In other words, when this state occurs, the movement operator applied to this set of vectors generates only allowed translations and does not generate rotations.

[0032] The term "Y immediately downstream of X" means that the device or product Y can be identified immediately after X without the intervention of a further device or product.

[0033] The term "selectively extend" means to alter the extension of an object or a part of it, increasing it without pre-set geometric constraints or limitations.

[0034] The term "while the laminated structure is being formed" refers to an action or process state that occurs at any step involved in the formation of the laminated structure.

[0035] When the term "consistent" is used in relation to the movement of two or more elements, it means that these elements perform substantially the same movement substantially simultaneously. This term is understood as a synonym for "integrated," which has a broader meaning in relation to structural constraints.

[0036] In other words, two elements moving in accordance with a consistent motion move together as a single structure. In this case, these elements do not necessarily need to be directly joined or constrained to each other, and may be related to other units or parts of the device. In fact, each handling system for the two elements may be configured, programmed, or operated to move both elements together simultaneously as needed. Alternatively, for example, temporary constraints (physical or digital) may be placed between the two elements to connect and move them together in cooperation over several process steps, and then separate them again so that they can move independently of each other.

[0037] Furthermore, please note that the expression "to move an object between a first position and a second position" means both movement from the first position to the second position and movement from the second position to the first position.

[0038] This definition also applies to similar action expressions such as "transferring" or "moving" a general object between two locations, between two areas, or even between two different operational configurations.

[0039] In response to the persistent need to improve the performance and efficiency of manufacturing processes, the applicant has preliminary observed that, in a production line for forming laminated structures, when forming laminated structures suitable for use in forming electrochemical cells for the purpose of manufacturing batteries, the rate at which separator strips advance relative to the unit performing the lamination can be a significant factor limiting the manufacturing capacity of the production line itself.

[0040] Furthermore, this limitation becomes even more important when high precision is required in the formation of layered structures.

[0041] In particular, the applicant has observed that in many applications, such as in the field of electrochemical cell manufacturing, it is necessary to ensure high precision in the geometric shape of the laminate and in the step of arranging electrode foil sheets between the laminated layers, and that this is essential to ensure the performance required of the finished product.

[0042] Furthermore, the applicant had previously observed that in the aforementioned production line for forming a laminated structure, it is necessary to fold the separator strip layers back 180 degrees and manufacture subsequent layers that overlap with the lower layers and are aligned vertically.

[0043] The applicant confirmed that the separator strips moved significantly during the lamination process, causing a large change in their angular orientation. This led to the observation that the direction of travel of the separator strips changed in a complex manner over time, across the entire supply line, up to a predetermined lamination plane.

[0044] Furthermore, the applicant's intensive research and detailed examination revealed that such rapid spatial changes and changes in the angular orientation of the separator strips during the lamination process can cause significant damage to the strips themselves.

[0045] In fact, the applicant observed that when the unwinding direction of the separator strip changes over time, the hydrodynamic lateral pressure acting on the moving separator strip can become asymmetrical.

[0046] The applicant has internally identified this phenomenon and given it the name "sail effect."

[0047] The applicant observed that such asymmetrical deflection phenomena can cause significant microscopic and macroscopic deformations in the separator strip structure, thereby introducing a step that can potentially cause serious damage to the material, which is a key component of the laminated structure.

[0048] Furthermore, the applicant observed that such microscopic and macroscopic deformations of the separator strip structure can lead to undesirable tension conditions, potentially causing strip breakage in the case of excessive tension, and, in the case of tension loss, causing uncontrollable elongation, even locally, which can result in wrinkles and sagging, impairing the efficient alignment of each layer and proper contact between laminated surfaces. The applicant also observed that these problems, associated with damage to the separator strip structure and / or the occurrence of non-constant and non-uniform tension conditions with significant non-uniformity at the contact surfaces, can be particularly serious in applications in the electrical field. In this field, desired conditions for insulation or contact between different parts must be reliably and consistently guaranteed with the utmost reliability and reproducibility.

[0049] The applicant has confirmed that the adverse operating conditions occurring in such separator strips are correlated with the speed at which the separator strip itself moves during the unwinding and stacking steps, i.e., its speed of movement in space.

[0050] Therefore, the applicant has identified a method to improve the lamination speed of separator strips compared to known solutions by significantly reducing or avoiding damage to the separator strips during the formation of the laminated structure and further during the interlayer positioning step of the foil sheets.

[0051] Furthermore, the applicant has found that by minimizing the portion of the separator strip exposed to asymmetric hydrodynamic lateral pressure and advancing the separator strip while maintaining a predetermined angular orientation as much as possible, it is possible to speed up the unwinding and lamination process without compromising the dimensional accuracy of the laminated structure, without compromising the dimensional accuracy and spatial deployment of the laminated structure, and without creating uncontrollable and harmful tension conditions in the strip. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0052] These characteristics allow strips to proceed at increased unwinding and stacking speeds, overcoming the limitations on process speeds that may be adopted depending on the teachings of known technologies.

[0053] Furthermore, the applicant has observed that the present invention can be advantageously utilized in the steps of gripping a strip to initiate lamination onto a desired lamination surface, or in the steps of cutting a separator strip and placing a foil sheet thereon. [Means for solving the problem]

[0054] Therefore, in its first embodiment, the present invention is preferably directed to a laminating apparatus for laminating separator strips and foil sheets.

[0055] Preferably, the apparatus includes a stacking unit.

[0056] Preferably, the laminated unit has a laminated surface.

[0057] Preferably, the laminated surface is configured to receive the separator strip and the foil sheet.

[0058] Preferably, the device includes a supply unit.

[0059] Preferably, the supply unit is configured to supply separator strips along the supply path.

[0060] Preferably, the supply unit includes a delivery direction control device.

[0061] Preferably, the delivery direction control device is located immediately upstream of the stacking unit.

[0062] Preferably, the delivery direction control device is designed to define a reference delivery direction for the separator strip.

[0063] Preferably, the apparatus includes a handling unit comprising a first and / or second handling device.

[0064] Preferably, the first and / or second handling device is configured to move the delivery direction control device and / or the stacking surface, respectively, thereby maintaining a first distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface.

[0065] Preferably, the first distance is measured according to the reference discharge direction.

[0066] Preferably, the first distance is 0 to 30 mm, more preferably 0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably substantially equal to 0 mm.

[0067] The applicant has found that these characteristics make it possible to maintain a sufficiently small distance between the feed direction control device and the stacking surface. This distance is preferably defined taking into account the overall dimensional constraints of the motion mechanism involved.

[0068] In this way, the elongation of this section is reduced, and the deflection phenomenon of the strip section located downstream of the delivery direction control device is minimized. In fact, the applicant has found that when it is necessary to significantly change the angular orientation of the stacked separator strips, it is possible to act downstream of the delivery direction control device by reducing the amount of separator strips that are affected by the change in orientation, and consequently by reducing the amount of separator strips that are affected by the asymmetry of hydrodynamic lateral pressure. In this way, it is possible to significantly reduce or eliminate damage caused by the deflection phenomenon.

[0069] Furthermore, the applicant has noticed that since the deflection phenomenon occurs only when such a change in elongation is accompanied by a change in angular orientation, it is possible to increase or decrease the longitudinal length of the separator strip, and in fact, it is possible to create a winding of the separator strip.

[0070] In this way, the applicant has at least partially solved the problems of the prior art by defining a first distance between the feed direction control device and the lamination surface that is small enough to allow greater freedom of movement when movement occurs from the feed direction control device in a direction close to perpendicular to the reference feed direction of the strip, while relatively restricting movement having a component parallel to the direction of the first distance.

[0071] Furthermore, based on a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method for forming a laminated structure of separator strips, preferably a laminated structure of an electrochemical cell for the purpose of manufacturing a battery.

[0072] Preferably, the method includes the step of arranging a supply unit configured to supply separator strips along a supply path.

[0073] Preferably, the supply unit includes a delivery direction control device designed to define a reference delivery direction of the separator strip.

[0074] Preferably, the method includes the steps of arranging a movable stacking surface and defining a second work path.

[0075] Preferably, the method includes the step of laminating separator strips onto the laminated surface.

[0076] Preferably, the step of stacking separator strips is carried out by maintaining a first distance between the stacking surface and a feed direction control device, which is measured according to the reference feed direction of the separator strips, to 0 to 30 mm, more preferably 0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably substantially 0 mm. The handling unit includes the step of moving the delivery direction control device and / or stacking surface, respectively, so that the process is carried out.

[0077] Furthermore, based on this embodiment, it becomes possible to achieve the same advantages described in relation to the previous embodiment.

[0078] In at least one of the embodiments described above, the present invention may have at least one of the following further preferred features.

[0079] Preferably, the second handling device for the laminated surface is configured to move the laminated surface along a second work path.

[0080] Preferably, the first distance is substantially constant for at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably 100% of the operating time of the second work path.

[0081] In this way, deflection phenomena can be effectively reduced for most of the process steps related to the unwinding and stacking of separator strips. The first distance is maintained at a predetermined value over time. Furthermore, it is possible to provide limited variations within a predetermined range of this first distance, specifically aimed at providing additional advantages while maintaining a high overall process speed without compromising the tension state or damaging the stacked separator strips.

[0082] Preferably, the supply unit includes a first directional control device provided in the supply path.

[0083] Preferably, the first direction control device is positioned upstream of the unwinding direction of the separator strip. This defines at least one storage section of the separator strip between the first direction control device and the discharge direction control device.

[0084] Preferably, the first handling device is • An approach configuration in which the delivery direction control device is at the minimum distance from the first direction control device, the minimum distance being measured according to the length of the separator strip placed between the first direction control device and the delivery direction control device, • An extended configuration in which the delivery direction control device is at its maximum distance from the first direction control device, the maximum distance being measured according to the length of the separator strip placed between the first direction control device and the delivery direction control device. The device is configured to move the transmission direction control device between these points.

[0085] Preferably, the first handling device is configured to move the delivery direction control device so that the separator strip maintains the same angular orientation in all spatial arrangements it can take between the approaching state and the extended state in the storage section.

[0086] Preferably, the first handling device is configured such that the only portion of the separator strip downstream of the delivery direction control device that changes the angular orientation while the laminated structure (S) of the separator strip is being formed is an end section, the end section being defined downstream of the delivery direction control device and upstream of a first and / or second constraint position of the separator strip with respect to the laminated surface.

[0087] This technical solution makes it possible to accumulate a desired amount of separator strips according to process needs. This allows the tension of the separator strips to be kept constant. Furthermore, deflection can be eliminated in the accumulation section upstream of the delivery direction control device, and minimized or avoided in the downstream section. In this way, the separator strips can be laminated on the lamination surface while minimizing damage due to deflection, maintaining constant tension, and ensuring the formation of the laminated structure with the desired precision.

[0088] Preferably, the end section is oriented along the deviation direction of the delivery direction control device, which can be identified immediately downstream of the unwinding direction of the separator strip.

[0089] Preferably, the deviation direction defines the deviation angle with respect to the reference transmission direction.

[0090] Preferably, the handling unit is configured to move the delivery direction control device relative to the stacking surface by defining a second distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface.

[0091] Preferably, the second distance is • When the deviation angle is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance is minimized, and / or • When the deviation angle is between +81° and +100°, or between -81° and -100°, the second distance is defined so that it is selectively extended.

[0092] This solution allows for greater flexibility, adaptability, and modularity in the process. This makes it possible to maintain constant tension in the separator strip while maintaining a high process speed, even when the elongation of the end sections of the separator strip is changed, without significantly affecting the deflection phenomenon.

[0093] Preferably, when the deviation angle is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance is substantially equal to the first distance.

[0094] In this way, the end sections of the separator strip are kept as small as possible to reduce or eliminate the deflection phenomenon that may potentially occur when the strip must undergo a large change in angular orientation, that is, when the value of the deviation angle changes.

[0095] Preferably, when the deviation angle is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees, the second distance between the first constraint position and the second constraint position is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length.

[0096] This technical solution also makes it possible to further vary the extension of the end sections depending on the specific form of the laminated structure formed and / or to avoid interference with the motion mechanism provided in the device.

[0097] Preferably, when the deviation angle is substantially equal to +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the first distance is When approaching the laminated surface, does it change from a constant value within the range of the first distance and 200% of the first distance? • When moving away from the laminated surface, the value changes from a constant value to a value within the range of a first distance and 200% of the first distance.

[0098] In this way, it becomes possible to move the laminated surface beyond the state perpendicular to the reference delivery direction. This allows the end sections of the separator strips overlapping the laminated surface to make better contact, improving the precision in forming the laminated structure. Alternatively, increasing the elongation of the end sections can more effectively avoid unwanted interactions between the relevant motion mechanisms.

[0099] To explain more clearly, "approaching movement" refers to relative movement initiated by reducing the distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface. Note that when the amount of approaching movement is equal to 100% of the first distance, the actual distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface becomes zero. Also note that when the amount of approaching movement exceeds 100% of the first distance, the actual distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface begins to increase again while maintaining the same approaching direction. Furthermore, when the amount of approaching movement is equal to 200% of the first distance, the delivery direction control device will be positioned on the opposite side of the stacking surface from the initial state corresponding to the first distance. As a result, the distance between the delivery direction control device and the stacking surface becomes equal to 100% of the first distance, but its position is on the opposite side of the stacking surface. Preferably, the first and / or second constraint positions of the separator strip with respect to the stacking surface are constraint points where the separator strip is constrained, respectively, by the first and / or second block devices formed on the stacking unit at the stacking surface.

[0100] In this way, it becomes possible to constrain and precisely define the end sections of the separator strips to be stacked in order to form the desired stacked structure. At the same time, by defining the end sections of the constraint points, it becomes possible to control and minimize the portions of the separator strip that are potentially exposed to asymmetry conditions of hydrodynamic lateral pressure that cause deflection phenomena.

[0101] According to a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second block device is a gripper, suction cup, or electromagnetic system adapted to selectively hold a portion of the separator strip integrally with the lamination surface.

[0102] In this way, it becomes possible to reversibly constrain a desired portion of the end section according to a predetermined time sequence at different points.

[0103] According to several embodiments, the laminated surface has a substantially planar unfolded portion having a substantially rectangular base. This can be sized according to the desired form of the laminated structure to be formed.

[0104] Preferably, the first and / or second block apparatus is constrained in such a way that translational movement within the same plane relative to the stacking surface is permitted.

[0105] In other words, the first and / or second block apparatus are constrained to the stacking planes at fixed positions that are variable in the direction of the distance between them.

[0106] In this way, it becomes possible to easily and quickly adapt the desired form of the laminated surface depending on the laminated surface being used.

[0107] Preferably, the first and / or second block apparatus is constrained vertically while allowing translational movement with respect to the stacking surface.

[0108] This technical solution makes it possible to more effectively restrain the separator strips against the laminated surfaces as the formation of the laminated structure progresses.

[0109] Preferably, the delivery direction control device includes a pair of rollers.

[0110] This technical solution allows for easy guidance of the separator strip in response to changes in the deviation angle, thereby minimizing potential damage to the strip itself.

[0111] Preferably, a pair of rollers are designed to face each other so that a separator strip passes between them.

[0112] In this way, the separator strip can be guided more effectively according to the desired reference discharge direction.

[0113] Preferably, a pair of opposing rollers have equal diameters and are driven by direct movement via a strip, chain, or similar technical solution, or by electric motors, or are arranged in controlled rotation relative to each other around a central axis of rotation.

[0114] In this way, surface deformation can be avoided, the passage of the separator strip can be effectively guided, and the separator strip can be moved locally relative to the supply rate upstream of them.

[0115] Preferably, the first direction control device is a driven roller.

[0116] In this way, the separator strip can be accurately guided along the supply path.

[0117] Preferably, the apparatus includes a first and / or second discharge assembly of the foil sheet.

[0118] Preferably, the first and / or second discharge assemblies of the foil sheets are configured to discharge the first or second foil sheets from a portion of the separator strip on the laminate surface at a minimum discharge distance when the first or second discharge assembly moves toward the laminate surface between receiving sections of the second work path to a second handling device.

[0119] Preferably, the approach movement is configured to produce a state in which the relative velocity between the first and / or second discharge assemblies and the stacking surface is substantially zero, and at least one moving element is configured to move parallel to the reference discharge direction, preferably perpendicular to the stacking surface, and more preferably along the vertical direction.

[0120] In this way, the alignment of the electrode foil sheets can be optimized during the release step, allowing for precise and efficient acquisition of the desired electrochemical cell, and enabling control over the construction of a laminated structure with the electrode foil sheets interposed between layers of separator strips.

[0121] In particular, when the release is performed by approaching with purely vertical handling, undesirable horizontal movement is avoided. In this way, it becomes possible to release and transfer foil sheets more accurately, reliably, and reproducibly.

[0122] Preferably, the end section is oriented according to the direction of deviation, is identifiable downstream of the delivery direction control device, and defines the deviation angle with respect to the reference delivery direction.

[0123] Preferably, the first and second handling devices are configured to cause relative movement between the stacking surface and the feed direction control device. This ensures that the same deviation angle with respect to the reference feed direction remains substantially constant with respect to the elongation of the end section. This elongation of the end section is preferably 10% to 100%, more preferably 20% to 90%, and even more preferably 40% to 60% of the maximum length between the first and second restraint positions of the separator strip relative to the stacking surface.

[0124] The applicant has found that these characteristics make it possible to maintain a constant angular orientation between the feed direction control device and the stacking surface during the unwinding and / or stacking steps. This eliminates the angular fluctuation state that precedes the generation of asymmetry in hydrodynamic lateral pressure on the separator strip, thus preventing deflection of the separator strip.

[0125] Preferably, relative movement occurs when the deviation angle is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees.

[0126] In this case, the change in elongation of the end section of the separator strip occurs substantially perpendicular to the reference delivery direction of the separator strip from the delivery direction control device. This allows for variations in the desired amount of separator strip available to more effectively avoid, for example, dimensional constraints of other nearby motion mechanisms.

[0127] According to other embodiments, relative movement occurs when the deviation angle is substantially equal to 0 degrees.

[0128] This technical solution makes it possible to unwind the separator strip while maintaining the same angular orientation given by the delivery direction control device. This further reduces the damage and deformation that the separator strip may suffer.

[0129] Preferably, the second handling device is configured to move the stacked surface by continuous movement along a second path that defines a closed curve.

[0130] In this way, a path without reversal points, i.e., a process that does not require stopping, can be realized, thereby optimizing the completion time of the laminated structure for the electrochemical cell. Furthermore, the ideal and constant tension of the separator strip can always be maintained, and sudden deceleration and acceleration in each of the associated operating units can be avoided, thus preventing a significant reduction in the average lifespan of these units. Preferably, the first handling device of the delivery direction control device is configured to follow the movement of the second handling device, which moves the laminated surface continuously, in at least one component.

[0131] In this way, the storage section changes in accordance with the movement of the stacking surface, and a desired amount of additional separator strips can be secured that can be used even during movement, which previously required stopping in conventional technology.

[0132] In other words, this solution prevents interruptions in the supply and movement of separator strips, thus avoiding the occurrence of undesirable tension conditions and a decrease in the overall productivity of the equipment.

[0133] Preferably, the method includes the feature that the first distance is substantially constant for at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably 100% of the operating time of the second work path.

[0134] In this way, as described above, deflection can be effectively reduced for most of the process steps related to the unwinding and stacking of the separator strips. In this case, the first distance is maintained at a predetermined value constant over time. Furthermore, it is possible to provide limited variation within a predetermined range of this first distance, with a particular aim of providing further advantages while maintaining a high overall process speed without compromising the tension state or causing damage to the stacked separator strips.

[0135] Preferably, when the first handling device moves the first direction control device and the delivery direction control device from an approaching state to an extended state relative to each other, the deviation angle changes in the range of +80 degrees to -80 degrees. On the other hand, when the first handling device moves the first direction control device and the delivery direction control device from an extended state to an approaching state relative to each other, the deviation angle changes in the range of +81 degrees to +100 degrees or -81 degrees to -100 degrees.

[0136] In this way, the mutual tracking steps in each spatial arrangement of the device are optimized. Preferably, the approaching movement, and more preferably the associated release of the first or second foil sheet, occurs when the deviation angle is in the range of +81 to +100 degrees or -81 to -100 degrees.

[0137] In this way, the first or second foil sheet discharge process can be carried out on the conveyor belt without stopping the supply of the strip itself.

[0138] Preferably, the method includes arranging end sections of separator strips whose orientation is determined according to a deviation direction that can be identified immediately downstream of the delivery direction control device, and defining a deviation angle with respect to a reference delivery direction.

[0139] Preferably, the method includes defining a second distance between the feed direction control device and the stacking surface, thereby moving the feed direction control device and / or the stacking surface relative to each other.

[0140] Preferably, by the movement of the delivery direction control device and / or the stacked surfaces relative to each other, • When the deviation angle is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance is minimized, and / or • If the deviation angle is between +81° and +100°, or between -81° and -100°, the second distance is selectively extended.

[0141] This solution allows this employable method to offer greater flexibility, adaptability, or modularity to the process. This makes it possible to optionally change the elongation of the separator strip end sections as needed, while maintaining constant tension on the separator strip and preserving high process speeds without significantly affecting deflection.

[0142] Preferably, the method includes the feature that when the deviation angle is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance is substantially equal to the first distance.

[0143] In this way, the end sections of the separator strip are kept as small as possible to reduce or eliminate the deflection phenomenon that may potentially occur when the strip must undergo a large change in angular orientation.

[0144] Preferably, the method includes the feature that when the deviation angle is +81 to +100 degrees, or -81 to -100 degrees, the second distance between the first and second constraint positions of the separator strip with respect to the laminate surface is 0% to 10% of the maximum length.

[0145] In this way, the extension of the end sections can be further varied depending on the specific form of the laminated structure formed and / or to avoid interference with the motion mechanism provided in the device.

[0146] Preferably, the method includes arranging a handling unit which includes a first and / or second handling device configured to move a delivery direction control device and / or a stacking surface, respectively.

[0147] In this way, the desired movement is controlled by a handling unit configured to act simultaneously on a portion of the supply unit and / or a portion of the stacking unit, making it possible to effectively and precisely optimize the relative movement.

[0148] Preferably, the method includes the step of positioning a first and / or second release assembly of a foil sheet. The first and / or second release assembly is configured to release the first and / or second foil sheet at a minimum release distance from a portion of the separator strip on the laminate surface when moving toward the first or second release assembly and the laminate surface.

[0149] Preferably, the method includes the step of performing an approaching movement such that the relative velocity between the first and / or second discharge assemblies and the stacking surface becomes substantially zero, causing at least one moving element to be parallel to the reference discharge direction, preferably perpendicular to the stacking surface, and more preferably along the vertical direction.

[0150] Preferably, the method includes the step of releasing a first or second foil sheet onto a portion of the separator strip on the laminated surface.

[0151] In this way, by effectively controlling these release positions, it becomes possible to optimize the release step of the electrode foil sheet.

[0152] Preferably, the method includes the step of releasing a plurality of first and second foil sheets by interposing folded sections of a laminated separator strip between them.

[0153] In this way, the alignment of the electrode foil sheets can be controlled during the release step to optimize the formation of a laminated structure in which the electrode foil sheets are interposed between layers of separator strips, so that the desired electrochemical cell can be obtained accurately and efficiently.

[0154] Preferably, the method includes the step of releasing a first or second foil sheet during approach movement when the deviation angle is +81 to +100 degrees or -81 to -100 degrees.

[0155] In this way, discharge occurs in a substantially orthogonal state between the reference discharge direction and the laminated surface. This corresponds to a configuration in which the end sections of the separator strip substantially contact the laminated surface, thereby presenting an ideal planar state for receiving the electrode foil sheet.

[0156] In this way, the release and transfer operations of the foil sheets to the separator strip for forming the desired laminated structure are further optimized.

[0157] Preferably, the method includes the step of moving the first handling device and the second handling device relative to each other so as to cause relative movement between the lamination surface and the feed direction control device. This ensures that the same deviation angle with respect to the reference feed direction remains substantially constant with respect to the elongation of the end section. This elongation of the end section is preferably 10% to 100%, more preferably 20% to 90%, and even more preferably 40% to 60% of the maximum length between the first and second restraint positions of the separator strip with respect to the lamination surface.

[0158] The applicant has found that these characteristics make it possible to maintain a constant angular orientation between the feed direction control device and the stacking surface during the unwinding and / or stacking steps. This eliminates the angular fluctuation state that precedes the generation of asymmetry in hydrodynamic lateral pressure on the separator strip, thus preventing deflection of the separator strip.

[0159] Preferably, the method includes the step of performing a relative movement when the deviation angle is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees.

[0160] In this case, the change in elongation of the end section of the separator strip occurs substantially perpendicular to the reference delivery direction of the separator strip from the delivery direction control device. This allows for variations in the desired amount of separator strip available to more effectively avoid, for example, dimensional constraints of other nearby motion mechanisms.

[0161] Preferably, the method includes the step of performing a relative movement when the deviation angle is substantially equal to 0 degrees.

[0162] This technical solution makes it possible to unwind the separator strip while maintaining the same angular orientation given by the delivery direction control device. This further reduces the damage and deformation that the separator strip may suffer.

[0163] Preferably, the method includes the step of arranging a second handling device for a laminated surface to move the laminated surface in a continuous movement along a second work path that defines a closed curve.

[0164] This technical solution enables a process that does not require downtime, thereby optimizing the completion time of the laminated structure for electrochemical cells. Furthermore, it allows for the maintenance of an ideal and constant tension in the separator strip, avoiding sudden deceleration and acceleration in each associated operating unit, thus preventing a significant reduction in the average lifespan of these units.

[0165] Preferably, the method includes the step of arranging a first handling device that follows, in at least one component, the movement of a second handling device that moves the laminated surface in a continuous manner.

[0166] This technical solution allows the storage section to change in accordance with the movement of the stacking surface, and makes it possible to secure a desired amount of additional separator strip that can be used even during movement, which previously required stopping in conventional technology. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0167] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description relating to exemplary embodiments shown with reference to the accompanying drawings, as non-limiting examples. [Figure 1] This is a schematic front view illustrating the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during an operation step. [Figure 3] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during an operation step. [Figure 4] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during an operation step. [Figure 5] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during an operation step. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of a device realized according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 8] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 9] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 10] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 11] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 12] This is a schematic front view showing the apparatus according to the present invention during a further operating step. [Figure 13] This is a schematic front view showing the details of a laminated structure that can be formed by the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 19a] This is a non-scale front view schematically illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 19b] This is a non-scale front view schematically illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 19c] This is a non-scale front view schematically illustrating the details of the operating steps of the apparatus according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0168] First, referring to Figures 1 and 2, a lamination apparatus 100 for laminating separator strips NS and foil sheets, realized according to the present invention, is shown as a whole by reference numeral 100.

[0169] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 is intended to carry out lamination of separator strips NS for the purpose of manufacturing an electrochemical cell.

[0170] However, it should be noted that this is merely an example of possible embodiments, and the apparatus 100 according to the present invention may also be intended to laminate separator strips for different applications in fields other than those related to the manufacture of electrochemical cells.

[0171] For example, in the field of energy storage, the present invention may be applied to the formation of other stacked elements intended for batteries or supercapacitors.

[0172] For example, in some embodiments as shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 100 may be used in connection with a production line for a laminated structure S for an electrochemical cell. Here, separator strips NS are folded and laminated, thereby creating an overlap of layers and allowing electrode foil sheets to be interposed between the layers.

[0173] A separator strip NS is, for example, a polymer strip that has the function of electrically insulating electrode foil sheets interposed between different layers.

[0174] According to several embodiments, the separator strip NS may be made of a single material or may be a multilayer structure including multiple overlapping layers.

[0175] Referring to Figure 11, two electrode foil sheets, or more simply the electrodes, are indicated by reference numerals 201 and 301. These are placed on a separator strip NS during the lamination step to form a laminated structure S, which can then proceed to the completion of the electrochemical cell.

[0176] In particular, the cathode foil sheet is indicated by reference numeral 201, and the anode foil sheet is indicated by reference numeral 301. Aluminum is an example of a material that can be used as a cathode in the form of a foil sheet, and copper is an example of a material that can be used as an anode in the form of a foil sheet.

[0177] In its general configuration, the apparatus 100 realized according to the embodiment shown in the attached drawings includes a supply unit 20, a lamination unit 1, a handling unit 130, and first and / or second discharge assemblies of foil sheets 200 and 300.

[0178] In a preferred embodiment, the separator strip NS is supplied by a special discharge device (not shown). For example, this separator strip NS discharge device may be formed by a large reel from which the separator strip NS is collected so as to be unwound and thus continuously supplied during the operation of the device.

[0179] The separator strips NS supplied by the discharge device are then discharged toward the supply unit 20. In a preferred embodiment, the supply unit 20 is a unit that deals with optimizing the transport and management of the separator strips NS before they are stacked by the relative stacking unit 1. Its characteristics are described in detail below.

[0180] In a preferred embodiment, the supply unit 20 preferably includes an inlet section (not shown) adapted to receive separator strips NS from a discharge device, and an outlet section that exits the supply unit 20 so that the separator strips NS are supplied to the lamination unit 1. The lamination unit 1 includes a lamination surface 10 adapted to receive separator strips NS so as to enable lamination of the separator strips NS.

[0181] In this way, the supply path PA of the separator strip NS is defined between the inlet section and the outlet section.

[0182] It should be noted that the separator strip NS may pass through further units for pre-treatment of the strip before being supplied to the supply unit 20. For example, the separator strip may undergo pre-cleaning, laser ablation, or surface activation treatment to homogenize its surface properties.

[0183] In a preferred embodiment, the separator strip NS is continuously supplied to the supply unit 20.

[0184] In other words, the separator strip NS is introduced into the supply unit 20 without stopping and proceeds at a speed greater than zero, preferably substantially constant.

[0185] However, in some cases, it may be necessary to interrupt the continuous supply or reduce the progress of the separator strip NS due to the need for other operations related to the specific process being carried out.

[0186] According to some embodiments, it is possible to continuously unwind the separator strip NS at a constant speed without interrupting the supply and unwinding of the separator strip NS. This ensures that the relative motion mechanism is always in motion and the tension state is always maintained, thereby reducing or avoiding sudden acceleration and deceleration of the handling device.

[0187] For this purpose and other purposes, the existence of a storage device configured to store separator strips NS can be provided.

[0188] As shown in the embodiment examples in Figures 1, 6, 11, and 12, the storage device included in the supply unit 20 may include a first direction control device R1 provided in the supply path PA. The first direction control device R1 is positioned upstream of the delivery direction control device R2 with respect to the unwinding direction of the separator strip NS. This allows at least one storage section T of the separator strip NS to be identified between the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2.

[0189] According to a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a handling unit 130, which includes a first handling device 131.

[0190] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 12, the first handling device 131 is • An approach state CR in which the delivery direction control device R2 is at the minimum distance from the first direction control device R1, the minimum distance being measured according to the length of the separator strip NS placed between the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2, • An extended state CE in which the delivery direction control device R2 is at its maximum distance from the first direction control device R1, the maximum distance being measured according to the length of the separator strip NS located between the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2, The system is configured to move the transmission direction control device R2 between these points.

[0191] The amount of accumulated strips is variable, and may be configured so that the length of the separator strip NS accumulated between each step of the process can change to meet the specific needs described above.

[0192] According to a preferred embodiment, the handling unit 130 includes an additional handling device (not shown) configured to move the first directional control device R1 to further determine a desired amount of separator strips NS located in the storage section T.

[0193] Continuing to refer to Figures 1, 6, 11, and 12, the first direction control device R1 is preferably a driven accompanying roller, and the delivery direction control device R2 includes two opposing rollers R2a and R2b through which the separator strip NS is passed.

[0194] According to a preferred embodiment, two (or four) opposing rollers R2a and R2b provided on the delivery direction control device R2 have equal diameters and are driven or rotated in opposite directions around a central axis of rotation, either by direct movement via a strip, chain, or similar technical solution, or by motor drive.

[0195] As shown in the embodiment in Figure 6, a further driven roller, constrained to a fixed position, is provided in the storage section T, which is located between the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2, enabling the separator strip NS to be wound and guided in a controlled manner.

[0196] More preferably, the supply unit 20 includes at least one tension control device, preferably a buffering element located in the storage section T.

[0197] Continuing to refer to Figure 1, a first handling device 131 is schematically shown. This may include, for example, a horizontal guide, a vertical guide, or a combination thereof.

[0198] Continuing to refer to Figure 1, the first handling device 131 of the delivery direction control device R2 is configured to move the delivery direction control device R2 along the first work path P1.

[0199] As shown in the embodiments of Figures 1, 11, and 12, the first work path P1 is preferably a linear section, more preferably perpendicular to the lamination surface 10, and even more preferably oriented in the vertical direction.

[0200] In fact, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the two rollers R2a and R2b preferably perform purely vertical translation along the first working path P1, moving reversibly between an approach state CR and an extended state CE. The key point here is that during this movement, the separator strip NS always maintains the same angular orientation in the storage section T. In other words, the two rollers R2a and R2b perform purely vertical translation along the storage section T, but their orientation relative to the separator strip NS does not change, i.e., no change in the strip's inclination occurs during such movement. This means that the separator strip NS in the storage section T is not subjected to hydrodynamically non-uniform lateral pressure conditions, and is therefore not subject to deflection phenomena and associated potential damage.

[0201] In this way, by changing the distance between the accompanying roller provided on the first direction control device R1 and the two rollers R2a and R2b provided on the delivery direction control device R2, it becomes possible to change the length of the path that the separator strip actually travels, thereby enabling the accumulation of a desired amount.

[0202] Thus, considering, for example, the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the length of the separator strip NS located in the storage section T can be increased by lowering the two rollers R2a and R2b, and given that the supply speed entering the supply unit 20 is constant or substantially constant, the downstream portion of the strip of the two rollers R2a and R2b can be slowed down or stopped without stopping the supply of the separator strip NS.

[0203] Such solutions will be described in more detail in the embodiments described later.

[0204] It should also be noted that, in a preferred embodiment, the actions of the two rollers R2a and R2b, or more generally the feed direction control device R2, can be associated with a separator strip NS holding device (not shown) configured to selectively control the movement of the separator strip NS.

[0205] For example, in some embodiments, a gripper (not shown) or other similar retaining element may be provided to control the movement of a separator strip portion NS. This retaining element acts on the separator strip when its control, retention, or stopping is required.

[0206] Advantageously, the gripper may be movable to further adjust the relative strip feeding rate by controlling its movement.

[0207] Furthermore, the gripper can be associated with a relative knife. The knife can be used to cut the laminated separator strips NS as needed, thereby creating an interruption in the continuity of the strips within the laminated structure S. This can be done, for example, at the completion of the lamination step of the separator strips NS on the lamination surface 10.

[0208] Furthermore, the rollers provided in the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2 allow for the control of the passing separator strip NS by assigning it a specific direction (according to the relative positions of the rollers, its diameter, etc.), and therefore, it is important that the orientation of the separator strip NS in space can be effectively controlled.

[0209] In a preferred embodiment, the accompanying roller provided on the first direction control device R1 is preferably attached to a buffer element or similar technical solution that allows the orientation of the separator strip NS to be changed by tilting or moving the axis of rotation of the accompanying roller itself.

[0210] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 12, the stacking unit 1 is positioned immediately downstream of the supply unit 20 and is configured to receive the separator strip NS that is moved by the supply unit 20.

[0211] Preferably, the separator strip NS is supplied by moving along the supply direction, while the delivery direction control device R2 is designed to provide a reference delivery direction DRU (i.e., final angular orientation). The reference delivery direction DRU corresponds to the direction the separator strip NS can take, in which it is free to continue its imposed motion without intervention from constraints and motion mechanisms located downstream of the delivery direction control device R2.

[0212] For example, as shown in Figures 3, 6, and 8, the reference delivery direction DRU is preferably perpendicular.

[0213] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the reference discharge direction DRU applied to the separator strip NS by the two rollers R2a and R2b is horizontal. More practically and clearly, an orientation angle α is defined, which represents the angle that the reference discharge direction DRU makes with respect to the vertical direction of the environment in which the device 100 is installed.

[0214] In this regard, it should be noted that in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, for example, the configuration of the separator strip NS relative to the delivery direction control device R2 determines the vertical reference delivery direction DRU and the value of the orientation angle α equal to, for example, 0 degrees, while Figure 9 shows an embodiment related to the horizontal reference delivery direction DRU and the relative value of the orientation angle α equal to 90 degrees.

[0215] Referring, for example to Figure 1 or Figure 2, the end section of the separator strip NS defined downstream of the delivery direction control device R2 and upstream of the first constraint position PV1 or the second constraint position PV2 of the separator strip NS with respect to the stacking surface 10 is indicated by reference numeral TF.

[0216] In the preferred embodiments shown in Figures 11 and 12, it should be noted that the first restraint position PV1 corresponds to the intervention point of the first blocking device 51, and the second restraint position PV2 corresponds to the intervention point of the second blocking device 52, which is located within the stacking unit 1 and acts on the stacking surface 10. More precisely, referring only to Figure 12, the first blocking device 51 is located distal to the delivery direction control device R2, while the second blocking device 52 is located proximal to the delivery direction control device R2.

[0217] According to a preferred embodiment, the first blocking device 51 and / or the second blocking device 52 are grippers, suction cups, or electromagnetic systems adapted to integrally and selectively hold a portion of the separator strip NS with the lamination surface 10.

[0218] According to several embodiments, the laminated surface 10 has a substantially planar unfolded portion having a substantially rectangular base. Its size can be determined according to the desired form of the laminated structure S to be formed.

[0219] Furthermore, the relative positions of the first block device 51 and / or the second block device 52 can be defined or modified according to the desired configuration of the laminated structure S. In other words, the first block device 51 and / or the second block device 52 are constrained in such a way that coplanar and / or vertical translational movement with respect to the laminated surface 10 is permitted.

[0220] For example, according to some embodiments as shown in Figure 11, the stacking unit 1 includes a plurality of block devices 51 and 52.

[0221] Furthermore, referring to Figure 11, it can be seen that the separator strip NS is constrained by the second blocking device 52. In this state, the end section TF is defined downstream of the delivery direction control device R2 and the second blocking device 52.

[0222] It is clear that when the first block device 51 is activated, the end section TF changes its extension and relative deviation angle β.

[0223] This occurs because the first block device 51 defines the extension and angular orientation of the end section TF.

[0224] Generally, the operation of a block system interposed between the upstream delivery direction control device R2 and the further downstream block device, which enables the removable restraint of the separator strip NS on the stacked surface 10, constantly causes changes in the elongation of the end sections and, in some cases, changes in the relative deviation angle β.

[0225] As described above, and as shown in Figures 11 and 12, for example, the extension and orientation of the end section TF can change significantly and rapidly depending on whether the block device is engaged on the separator strip NS. In fact, when the gripper acts on a portion of the separator strip NS and constrains it integrally with the stacking surface 10, it is clear that this portion does not undergo further changes relative to the stacking surface and moves with the stacking surface as if defining a single rigid body. Therefore, it should be noted that the portion of the separator strip NS that is not yet constrained with respect to the stacking surface 10 and is located downstream of the delivery direction control device R2 is identified as the end section TF described above. This end section TF has the characteristic that its extension and spatial orientation can be significantly changed before it is further constrained and moves integrally with the stacking surface 10.

[0226] Preferably, and also with reference to, for example, Figures 3, 5, and 8, an embodiment is shown in which the end section TF is identifiable downstream of the delivery direction control device R2 and is oriented according to a deviation direction DD that defines a deviation angle β with respect to the reference delivery direction DRU.

[0227] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3, 5, and 8, the deviation angle β can vary from approximately +100 degrees to -100 degrees with respect to the reference delivery direction DRU.

[0228] This angular change in the end section TF allows for stacking on the stacking surface 10 by first folding in one direction and then in the opposite direction, thereby forming a series of continuous overlapping layers as shown in Figure 13.

[0229] Referring to Figure 13, it should be noted that the two blocking devices 51 and 52 acting on the first restraint position PV1 and the second restraint position PV2, respectively, can act simultaneously or at different timings on the portion of the restrained separator strip NS.

[0230] According to a preferred embodiment, the blocking device operates by blocking the separator strip NS while lamination is progressing, at the point when the new separator strip layer NS is guided to substantially contact the lamination surface 10 or the layer below the lamination structure S.

[0231] Referring to Figure 6, it is interesting to see how the reference discharge direction DRU corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the outlet-side plane PU, which is coplanar with the separator strip NS, in the discharge direction control device R2.

[0232] According to one embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a handling unit 130 which includes a first handling device 131 and / or a second handling device 132. The handling unit 130 is configured to move the delivery direction control device R2 and / or the stacking surface 10 relative to each other. This allows the delivery direction control device R2 and / or the stacking surface 10 to move in accordance with the reference delivery direction DRU, and when the end section TF has an extension exceeding 1 / 3 of the maximum length between the first constraint position PV1 and the second constraint position PV2 of the separator strip NS relative to the stacking surface 10, the deviation angle β is maintained to exceed ±60 degrees in absolute value, more preferably ±70 degrees, and even more preferably ±80 degrees. Preferably, the maximum length is measured along a direction perpendicular to the outlet side plane PU.

[0233] In fact, considering the contents shown in Figures 1, 2, 6, 11, and 12, it should be noted that the first handling device 131 moves the delivery direction control device R2 in accordance with the movement caused by the stacking surface 10 by the second handling device 132. Preferably, the second handling device 132 may include, for example, a horizontal guide, a vertical guide, or a combination thereof.

[0234] According to a preferred embodiment, the movement produced by the handling device 131 is configured to be purely vertical translational motion. Since the first handling device 131 and the second handling device 132 are configured to follow each other, the second handling device 132 moves the stacking surface 10 by the same amount as the vertical translational motion performed by the delivery direction control device R2.

[0235] Referring, for example, to Figures 1 and 2, it can be seen that the movement of the stacked surface 10 caused by the second handling device 132 defines a second work path P2. This second work path P2 corresponds to a complex, closed path with both horizontal and vertical moving elements, such as a bifurcated or elongated arch shape. However, the second work path P2 is configured to move itself to coincide with the first work path P1 of the delivery direction control device R2.

[0236] In other words, the second work path P2 is configured to include a vertical translational component that is substantially equal in extension to the pure vertical translational motion performed by the delivery direction control device R2 in accordance with the first work path P1. In Figure 2, this pure vertical translational component included in the first work path P1 and the second work path P2 is indicated by reference numeral V1.

[0237] This means that while the stacking surface 10 moves vertically in alignment with the delivery direction control device R2, further movement occurs in addition to this, depending on the horizontal component.

[0238] In this way, by rapidly changing the deviation angle β, the horizontal movement of the stacking surface 10 can be performed quickly. As a result, the extended portion of the end section TF of the separator strip NS approaches the stacking surface 10 with a short movement along the second operating path P2, and the contact state between the end section TF and the stacking surface 10 is achieved when the deviation angle β is approximately +90 degrees or -90 degrees.

[0239] In other words, referring to Figure 7, the handling unit 130 is configured to move the delivery direction control device R2 relative to the stacking surface 10. This allows the first distance D1 between them to be kept substantially constant while the stacking structure of the separator strips NS is being formed, when the first distance D1 between them is measured along the reference delivery direction DRU. This first distance D1 is 0 to 30 mm, more preferably 0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably substantially equal to 0 mm.

[0240] As is evident from Figures 1, 6, and 14, and as mentioned above, the first distance D1 is preferably measured along the vertical direction and is always kept as constant as possible between 0 and 30 mm, excluding the overall space occupied by the relevant motion mechanism.

[0241] Furthermore, since the only constraint condition is the distance along the vertical, the above value can be maintained even when the stacked surface 10 moves horizontally by more than 30 mm.

[0242] In a preferred embodiment, referring to Figure 8 and in particular Figure 10, when the value of the deviation angle β is close to, for example, +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the first handling device 131 and the second handling device 132 are configured to cause a relative movement SR between the lamination surface 10 and the delivery direction control device R2, thereby maintaining the same deviation angle β with respect to the reference delivery direction DRU substantially constant even when the elongation of the end section TF of the separator strip NS changes by preferably 10% to 100%, more preferably 20% to 90%, and even more preferably 40% to 60% of the maximum length between the first constraint position PV1 and the second constraint position PV2 of the separator strip NS relative to the lamination surface 10. This minimizes the surface area of ​​the separator strip NS that is exposed to changes in hydrodynamic lateral pressure as the number of turns of the unwinding angle change of the separator strip NS while the lamination structure of the separator strip NS is being formed.

[0243] In fact, when the stacking surface 10 moves along a second work path P2, for example, away from the feed direction control device R2, with a deviation angle β of 85 degrees ± 10% in absolute value, this configuration requires that the feed direction control device R2 follows the movement of the stacking surface 10 according to at least one component, and maintains the first distance D1 to be substantially constant. As a result, the relative movement of the stacking surface 10 with respect to the feed direction control device R2 becomes a horizontal movement with a deviation angle β of substantially +90 degrees or -90 degrees. This makes it possible to avoid the occurrence of deflection in the end section TF of the separator strip NS.

[0244] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 15 and other figures, when the deviation angle β is substantially +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the first distance D1 changes as follows. When approaching the laminated surface, the distance changes from a fixed value of the first distance to a value between the first distance and 200% of that value. When moving away from the laminated surface, the distance changes from a fixed value of the first distance to a value between the first distance and 200% of that value.

[0245] In this way, for example, by more effectively bringing the separator strip NS into contact with the laminated surface 10, it becomes possible to further increase the value of the deviation angle β, and the possibility of folds occurring on the surface of the separator strip NS while it is restrained by the first blocking device 51 and / or the second blocking device 52 can be reduced.

[0246] Referring to Figures 19a, 19b, and 19c, several points in time are shown in detail regarding the change in the first distance D1 as the feed direction control device R2 and the stacking surface 10 move toward each other. In this example, the first distance D1 is measured along the vertical axis Z. More specifically, Figure 19a schematically shows the state where the first distance D1 is 10 mm and the approaching movement begins. For the sake of simplicity and for illustrative purposes, consider the case where the feed direction control device R2 is substantially stationary and the stacking surface 10 moves toward the reference feed direction DRU, i.e., upward. In Figure 19b, it can be seen that the stacking surface 10 has reached the height of the feed direction control device R2 and the first distance D1 is substantially 0. Figure 19c shows the point in time when the stacking surface 10 continues the motion shown in Figure 19b in the same direction and orientation, with an additional vertical upward movement of the same modulus of elasticity as the initial value of the first distance D1. In this configuration, the deviation angle β is substantially 110 degrees.

[0247] Referring to Figure 2, the handling unit 130 is configured to move the delivery direction control device R2 relative to the stacking surface 10 by defining a second distance D2 between the delivery direction control device R2 and the stacking surface 10. • When the deviation angle β is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance D2 decreases to its minimum, and / or • If the deviation angle β is between +81° and +100°, or between -81° and -100°, the second distance D2 is selectively extended.

[0248] Continuing to refer to Figure 2, the second distance D2 is identified as the minimum distance between any part of the delivery direction control device R2 and any part of the stacked surface 10.

[0249] Therefore, preferably, when the deviation angle β is between +80 and -80 degrees, it can be clearly stated that the second distance D2 is substantially equal to the first distance D1. This satisfies the conditions provided for the first distance D1 between 0 mm and 30 mm.

[0250] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, when the deviation angle β is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees, the second distance D2 between the first constraint position PV1 and the second constraint position PV2 is between 0% and 70% of the maximum length.

[0251] Alternatively, according to another preferred embodiment, when the deviation angle β is between +81° and +100°, or between -81° and -100°, the second distance D2 between the first constraint position PV1 and the second constraint position PV2 is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length.

[0252] Preferably, according to embodiments shown in Figures 11, 16, and 17, the apparatus includes a first foil sheet release unit 200 and a second foil sheet release unit 300 provided for a second handling device 132. These release units 200 and 300 are configured to release a first foil sheet 201 or a second foil sheet 301 to a portion of a separator strip NS on the lamination surface 10 at a minimum release distance DmR from the lamination surface 10. This release is performed when the first foil sheet release unit 200 or the second foil sheet release unit 300 makes an approach movement Mac toward the lamination surface 10 in the receiving section TR of the second operating path P2. The approach movement Mac is configured to produce a state in which the relative velocity between the first foil sheet release unit 200 and / or the second foil sheet release unit 300 and the lamination surface 10 is substantially zero, and furthermore, at least one moving element is parallel to the reference delivery direction DRU, preferably perpendicular to the lamination surface 10, and more preferably in the vertical direction.

[0253] According to several embodiments, a first discharge assembly 200 and / or a second discharge assembly 300 of a foil sheet includes corresponding first and second moving devices 210 and / or 310 configured to selectively move the first discharge assembly 200 and / or the second discharge assembly 300 of the foil sheet in response to an approach movement Mac.

[0254] Preferably, the first moving device 210 and / or the second moving device 310 are motion mechanisms having two degrees of freedom, and more preferably, they include a horizontal guide and a vertical guide.

[0255] According to the preferred embodiments shown in Figures 16 and 17, the approach movement Mac substantially begins when the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2 are in the approach state CR, and substantially ends when the first direction control device R1 and the delivery direction control device R2 are in the extended state CE.

[0256] Next, considering a preferred embodiment with reference to Figures 2 and 17, this overall configuration means that the discharge direction control device R2 moves vertically away from the first direction control device R1, which performs a purely vertical movement V1, and transitions from an approach state CR to an extended state CE, while the second discharge assembly 300 of the laminated surface 10 and foil sheet also performs a movement with the same vertical component V1. This achieves a substantially identical and aligned state, or a unified movement state, with respect to the vertical component among the three different devices in this process step.

[0257] This precise cooperative mechanism allows for the release of the second foil sheet 301 while minimizing potential damage to the formed laminated structure S. This is achieved by minimizing deflection by maintaining the first distance D1 between 0mm and 30mm, ensuring a constant tension in the separator strip NS by selectively setting the accumulation section T, and enabling continuous movement of the laminated surface 10 as the entire system continues to move vertically from an approaching state to an extended state during the release of either the first foil sheet 201 or the second foil sheet 301.

[0258] Furthermore, this cooperative mechanism is also implemented when the first foil sheet 201 is released by the second foil sheet release assembly 300.

[0259] Preferably, referring to Figure 11, the first release assembly 200 and the second release assembly 300 of the foil sheets each include a first retaining device 230 or a second retaining device 330, respectively. The first retaining device 230 or the second retaining device 330 is configured to selectively hold the first foil sheet 201 or the second foil sheet 301, for example, before and during an approach movement Mac, and to release the first foil sheet 201 or the second foil sheet 301 by deactivating the operation of the first retaining device 230 or the second retaining device 330, for example, at the end of the approach movement Mac.

[0260] These first retaining devices 230 and second retaining devices 330 are vacuum systems such as suction cups.

[0261] According to one embodiment, the second handling device 132 is configured to move the stacked surface 10 along the receiving section TR of the second work path P2 so as to approach the first moving device 210 and / or the second moving device 310 during the approach movement Mac.

[0262] This technical solution makes it possible to reduce the approach timing and increase the relative speed during the approach step between the laminated surface 10 and the first or second discharge assembly 200 or second discharge assembly 300 of the foil sheet.

[0263] According to a further embodiment, the second handling device 132 is configured to move the laminated surface 10 along the receiving section TR of the second work path P2 so as to move away from the first handling device 210 and / or the second handling device 310 during an approach movement Mac. The approach is performed depending on the difference in travel speed between the laminated surface 10 and the release assembly of the first release assembly 200 or the second release assembly 300 of the foil sheet.

[0264] In this way, the laminated surface 10 and the first release assembly 200 or the second release assembly 300 of the foil sheet come closer to each other, enabling a slower and less abrupt release.

[0265] The present invention also relates to an implementation of a method 500 for forming a laminated structure S of separator strips NS, preferably a laminated structure S of an electrochemical cell intended for the manufacture of a battery.

[0266] The method 500 provides the step of arranging an apparatus 100 which includes a supply unit 20, a handling unit 130, a stacking unit 1, and a fixed frame that restrains a first discharge assembly 200 or a second discharge assembly 300 of electrodes.

[0267] The handling unit 130 includes a vertical guide 131 that enables purely vertical translation of two rollers R2a and R2b that are opposite to each other and rotate in opposite directions, and a horizontal and vertical composite guide 132 that enables complex movement in space, which will be described in more detail below. According to an alternative embodiment, the delivery direction control device R2 includes four rollers.

[0268] The stacking surface 10 is attached to a device integrally constrained by the composite guides 132 in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0269] The vertical guide 131 and the composite guides 132 in the horizontal and vertical directions are attached to the fixed frame of the device 100 and are guided by motor drive.

[0270] Downstream of the release area (not shown), the path of the separator strip NS passes through the supply unit 20. More specifically, referring to FIGS. 1, 16 and 17, the separator strip NS passes through the accumulation section T provided in the supply unit 20. The accumulation section T is defined between the associated roller R1 and the two rollers R2a and R2b arranged at the outlet of the accumulation section T itself.

[0271] Downstream of the two rollers R2a and R2b, the conveyor belt is stably constrained to the stacking surface 10 by the gripper 52.

[0272] To further clarify and complete the description, Table 1 showing an example of the operation sequence implemented by the device 100 according to the method 500 to form the stacking structure S is described.

[0273]

Table 1

[0274] Referring to Table 1 and FIG. 18, it can be seen that in step 1, the end section TF of the separator strip NS is oriented along a deviation angle β equal to 0 degrees.

[0275] The end section TF is measured immediately downstream of the last contact point between the roller R2b and the separator strip NS and immediately upstream of the contact point between the first gripper 52 and the separator strip NS.

[0276] The length of the end section is about 12 mm. The first distance D1 is equal to 7 mm, and the second distance D2 is equal to the first distance D1.

[0277] Furthermore, in FIG. 18, a second closed working path P2 created by the horizontal and vertical composite guide 132 is shown. Here, its substantially bi - leaf shape (similar to an infinitely large symbol arranged horizontally), having substantially straight and vertical lateral paths (as can be noted from the parallelism between these portions of the second working path P2 and the vector triangle of the illustration where Z represents the vertical axis), is shown.

[0278] Also, in step 1, the accompanying roller R1 and the two opposing rollers R2a and R2b rotating in the reverse direction are in the extended state CE. The accumulation section T is measured along the length of the separator strip NS from the horizontal diameter of the accompanying roller R1 to the horizontal diameters of the two opposing rollers R2a and R2b rotating in the reverse direction.

[0279] In step 2, referring to FIG. 18, the lamination surface 10 is simultaneously moved in the right direction (corresponding to an increase in the coordinate position Y) and the upward direction (corresponding to an increase in the coordinate position Z). The separator strip NS is still held by the second gripper 52 (see, for example, FIG. 5).

[0280] Simultaneously, the two opposing rollers R2a and R2b rotating in the reverse direction are moved from the extended state CE to the approaching state CR by the vertical guide 131 and rise vertically (corresponding to an increase in the coordinate position Z).

[0281] As can be seen from FIG. 18 and Table 1, the deviation angle β increases from 0 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0282] The figures shown in FIGS. 1 - 5 and FIGS. 7 - 18 are two - dimensionally represented in the YZ plane.

[0283] Therefore, in this specification, conditions where the change in the position along X becomes large are not described.

[0284] Furthermore, referring to Figure 6, it can be seen that movement along axis X of the separator strip NS, and consequently the outlet-side plane PU, carries the risk of causing displacement and / or twisting of the strip itself, which could complicate or impair the effectiveness of the present invention.

[0285] In step 3, referring to Figure 16, during pure vertical translational motion, the two opposing rollers R2a and R2b, rotating in opposite directions, reach a proximity state CR, the deviation angle β is substantially equal to 90 degrees, and the stacked surface 10 is sandwiched to the right of the two rollers R2a and R2b.

[0286] The separator strip NS is substantially in contact with the surface 10 and is further blocked by the first gripper 51.

[0287] Referring further to Figure 16, at the end of step 3, the second emission assembly of electrode 300 reaches a position where its upper part faces the stacking surface 10.

[0288] The first distance D1 is approximately equal to 3 mm, while the second distance D2, measured as the minimum distance between any part of the two rollers R2a and R2b and any part of the laminated surface 10, is approximately equal to 7 mm.

[0289] In step 4, the "movement stops" phase begins. As described above, the movement vectors of the first work path of the two rollers R2a and R2b are in a state where they coincide with the movement vector of the second work path of the laminated surface 10 in terms of direction and elastic modulus.

[0290] This movement vector is a downward, purely vertical translational motion (corresponding to a movement with a negative value only in component Z) that moves the two rollers R2a and R2b, as well as the laminated surface, together from the approach state CR to the stretched state CE. Throughout the entire "movement stop," the deviation angle β is maintained substantially equal to +90 degrees.

[0291] At the end of step 4, a configuration equal to about 6 / 7 of the stretched state CE is reached, "movement stop" ends, and the steps of following at the minimum approach distance and releasing the second electrode 301 on the first folded layer of the separator strip NS of the laminated structure S end.

[0292] During step 4, the two rollers R2a and R2b, the lamination surface 10, and the second release assembly 300 of the electrode moved only the same amount according to the same movement vector.

[0293] The first distance D1 and the second distance D2 have the same values as in step 3.

[0294] In step 5, the lamination surface 10 moves downward and to the left as in step 2, but the moving direction is opposite. Consistently, the two rollers R2a and R2b further translate downward and reach the stretched state CE.

[0295] In this step 5, the deviation angle β decreases from +90 degrees to 0 degrees, returning to a situation equivalent to step 1, but this time, there is a difference that the separator strip NS is held by the first gripper 51 and the electrode 301 is laminated on the first folded layer of the separator strip NS.

[0296] Steps 6 - 10 are the left - hand mirror image of what happened during steps 2 - 5 on the right - hand side and provide the intervention of the first release assembly 200 of the electrode.

[0297] Thus, consistently, at the end of step 10 on the lamination surface 10 (equivalent to that of step 1 as the spatial configuration of the device 100), the two - layer separator strip NS is folded back, and the two foil sheets, preferably the two electrodes 301 and 201 (cathode and anode) are arranged.

[0298] Obviously, from step 10, the method 500 can proceed to a new step 2 for advancing the formation of the desired laminated structure S.

[0299] More generally, all the elements described above in relation to the embodiment shown in Figure 1 are provided by the present invention and can be combined with all the possible embodiments described above.

[0300] Needless to say, to satisfy specific and incidental requirements, a person skilled in the art can make further modifications and alterations, even within the scope of protection defined by the attached claims.

Claims

1. A lamination apparatus (100) for laminating separator strips (NS) and foil sheets (201, 301), A lamination unit (1) having a lamination surface (10) configured to receive the separator strip (NS) and the foil sheet, A supply unit (20) configured to supply the separator strips (NS) along a supply path (PA), and including a delivery direction control device (R2) located immediately upstream of the stacking unit (1), wherein the delivery direction control device (R2) is designed to define a reference delivery direction (DRU) of the separator strips (NS), A handling unit (130) includes a first handling device (131) and / or a second handling device (132) configured to move the delivery direction control device (R2) and / or the stacking surface (10), respectively, thereby maintaining a first distance (D1) between the delivery direction control device (R2) and the stacking surface (10), measured according to the reference delivery direction (DRU), to 0 to 30 mm, more preferably 0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably substantially 0 mm. Lamination apparatus (100).

2. The second handling device (132) of the laminated surface (10) is configured to move the laminated surface (10) along the second work path (P2), The first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably 100% of the operating time of the second work path (P2). The stacking apparatus (100) according to claim 1.

3. The supply unit (20) includes a first direction control device (R1) provided in the supply path (PA), the first direction control device (R1) being positioned upstream of the delivery direction control device (R2) with respect to the unwinding direction of the separator strip (NS), thereby defining at least one storage section (T) of the separator strip (NS) between the first direction control device (R1) and the delivery direction control device (R2). The first handling device (131) is, - An approach state (CR) in which the delivery direction control device (R2) is at the minimum distance from the first direction control device (R1), and the minimum distance is measured according to the length of the separator strip (NS) arranged between the first direction control device (R1) and the delivery direction control device (R2), - An extended state (CE) in which the delivery direction control device (R2) is at its maximum distance from the first direction control device (R1), wherein the maximum distance is measured according to the length of the separator strip (NS) arranged between the first direction control device (R1) and the delivery direction control device (R2), The delivery direction control device (R2) is configured to move between these points. The first handling device (131) is configured such that the separator strip (NS) maintains the same angular orientation in all spatial arrangements it can take between the approach state (CR) and the stretched state (CE) in the storage section (T), and the only portion of the separator strip (NS) downstream of the delivery direction control device (R2) that changes the angular orientation while the laminated structure (S) of the separator strip (NS) is being formed is an end section (TF), the end section (TF) being defined downstream of the delivery direction control device (R2) and upstream of the first constraint position (PV1) and / or second constraint position (PV2) of the separator strip (NS) with respect to the laminated surface (10). The lamination apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The end section (TF) is oriented along the deviation direction (DD) of the delivery direction control device (R2), which can be identified immediately downstream of the unwinding direction of the separator strip (NS), and the deviation direction defines the deviation angle (β) with respect to the reference delivery direction (DRU). The handling unit (130) is configured to move the delivery direction control device (R2) relative to the stacking surface (10) by defining a second distance (D2) between the delivery direction control device (R2) and the stacking surface (10), thereby, - When the deviation angle (β) is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance (D2) is minimized, and / or - When the deviation angle (β) is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees, the second distance (D2) is selectively extended. The lamination apparatus (100) according to claim 3.

5. When the deviation angle (β) is substantially equal to +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the first distance (D1) is: - When approaching the laminated surface (10), does the value change from a constant value within the range of the first distance (D1) and 200% of the first distance (D1)? - When moving away from the laminated surface (10), the value changes from the constant value to a value within the range of the first distance (D1) and 200% of the first distance (D1). The lamination apparatus (100) according to claim 4.

6. The foil sheet includes a first release assembly (200) and / or a second release assembly (300), the first release assembly (200) and / or the second release assembly (300) of the foil sheet, which, when the first release assembly (200) or the second release assembly (300) moves toward the laminate surface (10) between the receiving section (TR) of the second work path (P2) to the second handling device (132), a portion of the separator strip (NS) on the laminate surface (10) The system is configured to release a first foil sheet (201) and / or a second foil sheet (301) from a minimum release distance (DmR), the approach movement (Mac) is configured to cause a state in which the relative velocity between the first release assembly (200) and / or the second release assembly (300) and the laminate surface (10) is substantially zero, and at least one moving element is configured to move parallel to the reference delivery direction (DRU), preferably perpendicular to the laminate surface (10), and more preferably along the vertical direction. A stacking apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A method (500) for forming a laminated structure (S) of separator strips (NS), preferably a laminated structure of an electrochemical cell for the purpose of manufacturing a battery, A step of arranging a supply unit (20) configured to supply the separator strip (NS) along a supply path (PA), wherein the supply unit (20) includes a delivery direction control device (R2) designed to define a reference delivery direction (DRU) of the separator strip (NS), The steps include arranging a movable stacking surface (10) and defining a second work path (P2), The steps include: laminating the separator strip (NS) onto the lamination surface (10) while maintaining a first distance (D1) between the feed direction control device (R2), which is measured according to the reference feed direction (DRU) of the separator strip (NS), and the lamination surface (10) at 0 to 30 mm, more preferably 0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably substantially 0 mm; Method (500), including the method (500).

8. The method according to claim 7 (500), wherein the first distance (D1) is substantially constant for at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably 100% of the operating time of the second work path (P2).

9. The steps include: arranging the end section (TF) of the separator strip (NS) whose orientation is determined according to the deviation direction (DD) that can be identified immediately downstream of the discharge direction control device (R2), and defining the deviation angle (β) with respect to the reference discharge direction (DRU); The steps include defining a second distance (D2) between the delivery direction control device (R2) and the stacking surface (10), and moving the delivery direction control device (R2) and / or the stacking surface (10) relative to each other, This includes, and as a result, When the deviation angle (β) is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance (D2) is minimized, and / or When the deviation angle (β) is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees, the second distance (D2) is selectively extended. The method according to claim 7 or 8 (500).

10. The method according to claim 9 (500), wherein when the deviation angle (β) is between +80 degrees and -80 degrees, the second distance (D2) is substantially equal to the first distance (D1).

11. The method according to claim 9 (500), wherein when the deviation angle (β) is between +81 degrees and +100 degrees, or between -81 degrees and -100 degrees, the second distance (D2) between the first constraint position (PV1) and the second constraint position (PV2) of the separator strip (NS) with respect to the laminated surface (10) is between 0% and 10% of the maximum length.

12. A step of arranging a first release assembly (200) and / or a second release assembly (300) of foil sheets, wherein the first release assembly (200) and / or the second release assembly (300) are configured to release the first foil sheet (201) and / or the second foil sheet (301) from a portion of the separator strip (NS) on the laminate surface (10) at a minimum release distance (DmR) when the first release assembly (200) or the second release assembly (300) moves toward (Mac) the laminate surface (10), Steps include: performing the approach movement (Mac) such that the relative velocity between the first discharge assembly (200) and / or the second discharge assembly (300) and the stacking surface (10) becomes substantially zero, and positioning at least one moving element parallel to the reference discharge direction (DRU), preferably perpendicular to the stacking surface (10), and more preferably along the vertical direction; The steps include releasing the first foil sheet (201) or the second foil sheet (301) onto a portion of the separator strip (NS) on the laminated surface (10), The method according to any one of claims 7 to 11, including (500).

13. The method according to claim 12 (500), comprising the step of releasing a plurality of first foil sheets (201) and second foil sheets (301) by interposing folded sections of separator strips (NS) of the laminated structure (S) between them, preferably releasing the first foil sheets (201) and second foil sheets (301) during the approach movement (Mac) when the deviation angle (β) is +81 degrees to +100 degrees or -81 degrees to -100 degrees.

14. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 13 (500), comprising the step of positioning a second handling device (132) for the laminated surface (10) so as to move the laminated surface (10) in a continuous movement along the second work path (P2) that defines a closed curve.

15. The method according to claim 14 (500), comprising the step of continuously moving the stacked surface (10) and positioning the first handling device of the delivery direction control device (R2) that follows the movement of the second handling device (132) in at least one component.

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